masonry in new mexico - Grand Encampment of Knights Templar, USA

Lemon, and realizing that he was about to lose his life, he excitedly made some signs
exclaiming he belonged to the same Lodge. He was not believed and was hanged, but
someone rushed in and cut the rope, saving his life.
With the beginning of the Spanish-American War, Masons from all over New Mexico
responded to the call of their country. In 1898 when the call went out for volunteers for the
Rough Riders to fight in the Spanish-American War, New Mexico men responded. After the
successful completion of the war, the attention of New Mexicans was again directed to the
long struggle for statehood. This 60 year effort was finally ended successfully when, on
August 11, 1911, the Enabling Act was approved by Congress, and signed by President and
Brother Taft. On January 6, 1912, New Mexico became the 47th state to join the Union.
Statehood did not, of course, solve all of the problems of the area automatically. Troubles
with Mexican bandits under Pancho Villa came in 1916, and members were called upon to
participate in the Mexican Border Service.
Many participated in World War I. Captain Joe Quensenberry from Las Cruces was
commended by General Pershing for setting the esprit de corps for the American Army. He
was the leader of the first American unit to capture German prisoners and a German machine
gun.
It is fitting for us to remember and honor the pioneer Masons of New Mexico.